Life Long Learning Sector
Terri Lofthouse
REVISED EDITION
Preparing to Teach in the Life Long Learning Sector
Explain what your role, responsibilities and boundaries would be as a teacher:-
The role of a teacher is diverse and multifactorial; Francis and Gould (2009) suggest that the role of a teacher is not simply to be an evaluator but also to be a subject leader, curriculum developer, assessor, verifier and role model. Alternatively I suggest that the role and responsibilities of a teacher whilst multi variant are rooted in equality, diversity, inclusion, reflective learning, evaluation and progress. The role of a yoga teacher is to promote physical, mental and emotional support through postures and breathing techniques which assists students with their personal progression. Individual autonomy is paramount. It is necessary to be aware that the physical ability of a yoga teacher should not be affected by ones ego, the role is not to simply demonstrate advanced postures or techniques but to align with the group’s ability. The role is to collaborate, reflect and see the potential benefits of being a teacher.
B.K Iyengar (2000) argues. …show more content…
“As a yoga teacher it is easy to allow the ego to take over, being able to wrap your legs around your neck or do a head stand for one hour does not permit the student to keep up, the opposite may occur, where self doubt crushes the students the learning experience is lost and the teacher fails to teach.”
As a yoga teacher I have a responsibility especially in the lifelong learning sector to be aware of my reflective learning experience through personal progression and continuous professional development It is also necessary to evaluate my contributions within the organization I am working in, maintain records and encourage student and peer feedback.
I have a personal responsibility to ensure that correct postures are maintained and student health and safety is adhered to within class. Certain boundaries such as pregnancy, old age or ill health must be identified before any class commences. As a yoga teacher I should ask questions concerning such issues, identify, overcome, conclude and commence the class with practical and suitable solutions. I should use props, belts or cushions to overcome boundaries such as old age or pregnancy. I should be aware of student sensibilities regarding spiritual practice and expect emotional reactions such as crying or anger. Whilst this is common I should not allow this to become a barrier or hindrance in the class. Whilst guidance is part of a teachers function I must adhere to suitable parameters in such a way which enhances the learning experience for each student allowing the student to learn independently. It is necessary to be aware that records and assessments should be clearly marked and be easily accessible should another teacher teach my class. This ensures that the teacher is correctly signposted to the needs and problems of the new group and that I have alluded to correct procedures which protect the teacher, student and organization.
In conclusion the role of a yoga teacher is to be a subject leader, pass on knowledge, promote diversity, equality, health and acknowledge different learning styles within the lifelong learning sector.
The Job and What's Involved
Yoga strives to achieve a union between mind, body and spirit. It has been developed over thousands of years to promote good health and inner peace. Yoga teachers may instruct group classes or give one-to-one tuition.
There are various different types of yoga. The most widely practiced is hatha yoga, a combination of relaxation and breathing practices co-ordinated with moving into and out of various postures. Yoga exercises are low impact but they can also be strenuous. Yoga can be taught as a form of exercise to increase physical fitness and suppleness, or as a therapy to combat or control disease and ill health.
Yoga teachers devise lesson plans, which can be adapted for different class levels, from a beginner to an experienced level. A yoga class may be broken into:
Relaxation - around twenty minutes of a class being allocated to relaxation, at the beginning or end of the class, or both. This is achieved through physical relaxation and simple breathing exercises.
Limbering - warming up the muscles and joints to prepare the body for posture work.
Asanas - postures that strengthen and tone the body while improving the flow of energy. Teachers are trained to modify asanas for those with health and fitness problems by applying their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and structural kinesiology.
Pranayama - breathing techniques to develop concentration, awareness and relaxation.
Meditation - not included by all teachers in their class.
Some yoga teachers may incorporate history or philosophy in their classes, perhaps saying a traditional prayer of thanks at the end of the session. Very little equipment is needed, other than a non-slip mat for safety. Most teachers now use aids to enhance and provide wider access to postures, for example a belt used to aid passive stretching.
Through yoga, many people with chronic illnesses have learnt how to relax. They are taught how to cope with and take control of conditions such as: * Multiple sclerosis (MS). * Cancer. * Stress. * Insomnia. * Breathing disorders. * Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome. * Arthritis and Parkinson's disease. * Hay fever.
Some teachers specialise in teaching yoga to pregnant women or children.
The majority of yoga teachers are self-employed and choose the hours they work. They tend to work flexible hours, which may include evenings and weekends. It is possible to work on a part-time basis.
Yoga teachers may work in sports and leisure centres, in health clubs and in people's homes. They may run classes at local centres or village halls. In order to be as mobile as possible it is useful to have access to transport or be able to drive.
Loose, comfortable clothing is worn, such as a T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or leggings, and a good level of physical fitness is required.
Based on a 12-hour week, a new entrant may earn about £11,520 a year. With experience, this could increase to around £20,160 a year.
Getting Started with this Career Choice
Yoga originated in India and is now practiced by millions of people worldwide, to maintain and improve their quality of life. Interest in complementary therapies has increased over recent years.
Many yoga teachers are registered with the British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) although there are other representative bodies, and teachers often maintain membership with the school that they trained with.
Opportunities can be found through local newspapers, by advertising on one of the registered yoga websites or by promoting a new class in a community centre. It may also be useful to approach directly health clubs and leisure centres.
Education and Training
No academic qualifications are needed and people with qualifications at all levels enter this career.
The BWY is the national governing body for yoga in the UK and represents the national federation for the UK at the European Union of Yoga. It aims to improve and maintain the standards of yoga teaching and is becoming an approved awarding body for vocational qualifications. It offers a range of courses for members, providing professional qualifications, including a Foundation Course and a Teacher Training Diploma. Its courses can be completed at accredited BWY local centres or through distance learning, and it also accredits a number of yoga training centres.
As well as the BWY, other awarding bodies offer nationally accredited qualifications designed for students to develop their knowledge and also for those wanting to train as teachers.
These qualifications can be achieved through an Advanced Apprenticeship in exercise and fitness.
In conjunction with SkillsActive, The Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) was developed to protect the interests of people who use any health and fitness instructors (including yoga and Pilates teachers). The register uses a system of self-regulation that oversees training, recognises industry-based qualifications and requires members to follow a code of professional practice. To be placed on the register, yoga teachers must meet the standard at Level 3. Yoga entry to REPs is to be reviewed in 2009/2010.
Though public liability insurance is not compulsory, it is recommended, and teachers need to be aged 18 or over to obtain it. Ideally, they should hold a current first aid certificate and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certificate (CPR). A Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check is required if working with children or vulnerable adults. Teachers may also need knowledge of child protection procedures if working with children.
Owing to the flexibility of working hours, this role may be ideally suited to people who want to combine their job with family commitments.
A Few More Exams You Might Need
In order to keep their qualifications up to date, the BWY requires its qualified teachers to undertake continuing professional development (CPD) in the form of in-service training. It offers a range of training days throughout the UK for members.
There are a variety of additional modules after the BWY Teaching Diploma, these include:
- Teaching Yoga to Children
- Pregnancy
- Teaching Yoga in Prisons
- Meditation
- Yoga for the Third Age (taking yoga into the community)
Featured Job - Computer Service Technician
Computer Service Technicians install, repair and maintain computer equipment. This can range from laptop computers, and equipment such as printers and scanners in a small office, to highly complex equipment in a large banking or retail operation.
Technicians usually specialise in one area of operation, or even one type of computer.
They may also have to train office staff to use computer equipment properly, and are expected to give advice on the safe use of equipment.
Skills and Personal Qualities Needed
Yoga teachers should: * Have a high standard of physical and mental fitness. * Have good communication skills. * Have good interpersonal skills. * Be able to empathise with people. * Be able to motivate people. * Have a great deal of self-knowledge. * Be able to work on their own or within a team. * Be organised and keep administration up to date. * Be aware of health and safety issues and know their legal responsibilities. * Know when to refer someone to their GP. * Be able to work on a self-employed basis and run a business.
Your Long Term Prospects
With experience and training, yoga teachers can develop their expertise and the range of yoga classes they can offer.
They may decide to undertake further training to become a practitioner in other complementary therapies. Further business opportunities may be explored, such as setting up and developing yoga centres or running retreats
Get Further Information
British Wheel of Yoga (BWY), 25 Jermyn Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7RU
Tel: 01529 306851
Website: www.bwy.org.uk
The Prince's Foundation for Integrated Health,
33-41 Dallington Street, London EC1V 0BB
Tel: 020 3119 3100
Website: www.fih.org.uk
Register of Exercise Professionals, 3rd Floor,
8-10 Crown Hill, Croydon CR0 1RZ
Tel: 020 8686 6464
Website: www.exerciseregister.org
SkillsActive, Castlewood House,
77-91 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1PX
Tel: 020 7632 2000
Website: www.skillsactive.com
Yoga Biomedical Trust, 90-92 Pentonville Road, Islington, London N1 9HS
Tel: 020 7689 3040
Website: www.yogatherapy.org
Other Related Jobs * Alexander Technique Teacher * Aromatherapist * Health and Fitness Instructor * Herbalist Additional resources
Additional resources for job seekers and those already in a job.
Advice on dealing with student debt
A guide to preparing the perfect CV
All about the National Minimum Wage
How to increase your salary
How to get promoted at work
Search for the latest vacancies and salaries
Successful interview techniques
Unlucky graduates under the property ladder
REVISED EDITION
Preparing to Teach in the Life Long Learning Sector
Explain what your role, responsibilities and boundaries would be as a teacher:-
The role of a teacher is diverse and multifactorial; Francis and Gould (2009) suggest that the role of a teacher is not simply to be an evaluator but also to be a subject leader, curriculum developer, assessor, verifier and role model. Alternatively I suggest that the role and responsibilities of a teacher whilst multi variant are rooted in equality, diversity, inclusion, reflective learning, evaluation and progress. The role of a yoga teacher is to promote physical, mental and emotional support through postures and breathing techniques which assists students with their personal progression. Individual autonomy is paramount. It is necessary to be aware that the physical ability of a yoga teacher should not be affected by ones ego, the role is not to simply demonstrate advanced postures or techniques but to align with the group’s ability. The role is to collaborate, reflect and see the potential benefits of being a teacher.
B.K Iyengar (2000) argues. …show more content…
“As a yoga teacher it is easy to allow the ego to take over, being able to wrap your legs around your neck or do a head stand for one hour does not permit the student to keep up, the opposite may occur, where self doubt crushes the students the learning experience is lost and the teacher fails to teach.”
As a yoga teacher I have a responsibility especially in the lifelong learning sector to be aware of my reflective learning experience through personal progression and continuous professional development It is also necessary to evaluate my contributions within the organization I am working in, maintain records and encourage student and peer feedback.
I have a personal responsibility to ensure that correct postures are maintained and student health and safety is adhered to within class. Certain boundaries such as pregnancy, old age or ill health must be identified before any class commences. As a yoga teacher I should ask questions concerning such issues, identify, overcome, conclude and commence the class with practical and suitable solutions. I should use props, belts or cushions to overcome boundaries such as old age or pregnancy. I should be aware of student sensibilities regarding spiritual practice and expect emotional reactions such as crying or anger. Whilst this is common I should not allow this to become a barrier or hindrance in the class. Whilst guidance is part of a teachers function I must adhere to suitable parameters in such a way which enhances the learning experience for each student allowing the student to learn independently. It is necessary to be aware that records and assessments should be clearly marked and be easily accessible should another teacher teach my class. This ensures that the teacher is correctly signposted to the needs and problems of the new group and that I have alluded to correct procedures which protect the teacher, student and organization.
In conclusion the role of a yoga teacher is to be a subject leader, pass on knowledge, promote diversity, equality, health and acknowledge different learning styles within the lifelong learning sector.
The Job and What's Involved
Yoga strives to achieve a union between mind, body and spirit. It has been developed over thousands of years to promote good health and inner peace. Yoga teachers may instruct group classes or give one-to-one tuition.
There are various different types of yoga. The most widely practiced is hatha yoga, a combination of relaxation and breathing practices co-ordinated with moving into and out of various postures. Yoga exercises are low impact but they can also be strenuous. Yoga can be taught as a form of exercise to increase physical fitness and suppleness, or as a therapy to combat or control disease and ill health.
Yoga teachers devise lesson plans, which can be adapted for different class levels, from a beginner to an experienced level. A yoga class may be broken into:
Relaxation - around twenty minutes of a class being allocated to relaxation, at the beginning or end of the class, or both. This is achieved through physical relaxation and simple breathing exercises.
Limbering - warming up the muscles and joints to prepare the body for posture work.
Asanas - postures that strengthen and tone the body while improving the flow of energy. Teachers are trained to modify asanas for those with health and fitness problems by applying their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and structural kinesiology.
Pranayama - breathing techniques to develop concentration, awareness and relaxation.
Meditation - not included by all teachers in their class.
Some yoga teachers may incorporate history or philosophy in their classes, perhaps saying a traditional prayer of thanks at the end of the session. Very little equipment is needed, other than a non-slip mat for safety. Most teachers now use aids to enhance and provide wider access to postures, for example a belt used to aid passive stretching.
Through yoga, many people with chronic illnesses have learnt how to relax. They are taught how to cope with and take control of conditions such as: * Multiple sclerosis (MS). * Cancer. * Stress. * Insomnia. * Breathing disorders. * Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome. * Arthritis and Parkinson's disease. * Hay fever.
Some teachers specialise in teaching yoga to pregnant women or children.
The majority of yoga teachers are self-employed and choose the hours they work. They tend to work flexible hours, which may include evenings and weekends. It is possible to work on a part-time basis.
Yoga teachers may work in sports and leisure centres, in health clubs and in people's homes. They may run classes at local centres or village halls. In order to be as mobile as possible it is useful to have access to transport or be able to drive.
Loose, comfortable clothing is worn, such as a T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or leggings, and a good level of physical fitness is required.
Based on a 12-hour week, a new entrant may earn about £11,520 a year. With experience, this could increase to around £20,160 a year.
Getting Started with this Career Choice
Yoga originated in India and is now practiced by millions of people worldwide, to maintain and improve their quality of life. Interest in complementary therapies has increased over recent years.
Many yoga teachers are registered with the British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) although there are other representative bodies, and teachers often maintain membership with the school that they trained with.
Opportunities can be found through local newspapers, by advertising on one of the registered yoga websites or by promoting a new class in a community centre. It may also be useful to approach directly health clubs and leisure centres.
Education and Training
No academic qualifications are needed and people with qualifications at all levels enter this career.
The BWY is the national governing body for yoga in the UK and represents the national federation for the UK at the European Union of Yoga. It aims to improve and maintain the standards of yoga teaching and is becoming an approved awarding body for vocational qualifications. It offers a range of courses for members, providing professional qualifications, including a Foundation Course and a Teacher Training Diploma. Its courses can be completed at accredited BWY local centres or through distance learning, and it also accredits a number of yoga training centres.
As well as the BWY, other awarding bodies offer nationally accredited qualifications designed for students to develop their knowledge and also for those wanting to train as teachers.
These qualifications can be achieved through an Advanced Apprenticeship in exercise and fitness.
In conjunction with SkillsActive, The Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) was developed to protect the interests of people who use any health and fitness instructors (including yoga and Pilates teachers). The register uses a system of self-regulation that oversees training, recognises industry-based qualifications and requires members to follow a code of professional practice. To be placed on the register, yoga teachers must meet the standard at Level 3. Yoga entry to REPs is to be reviewed in 2009/2010.
Though public liability insurance is not compulsory, it is recommended, and teachers need to be aged 18 or over to obtain it. Ideally, they should hold a current first aid certificate and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certificate (CPR). A Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check is required if working with children or vulnerable adults. Teachers may also need knowledge of child protection procedures if working with children.
Owing to the flexibility of working hours, this role may be ideally suited to people who want to combine their job with family commitments.
A Few More Exams You Might Need
In order to keep their qualifications up to date, the BWY requires its qualified teachers to undertake continuing professional development (CPD) in the form of in-service training. It offers a range of training days throughout the UK for members.
There are a variety of additional modules after the BWY Teaching Diploma, these include:
- Teaching Yoga to Children
- Pregnancy
- Teaching Yoga in Prisons
- Meditation
- Yoga for the Third Age (taking yoga into the community)
Featured Job - Computer Service Technician
Computer Service Technicians install, repair and maintain computer equipment. This can range from laptop computers, and equipment such as printers and scanners in a small office, to highly complex equipment in a large banking or retail operation.
Technicians usually specialise in one area of operation, or even one type of computer.
They may also have to train office staff to use computer equipment properly, and are expected to give advice on the safe use of equipment.
Skills and Personal Qualities Needed
Yoga teachers should: * Have a high standard of physical and mental fitness. * Have good communication skills. * Have good interpersonal skills. * Be able to empathise with people. * Be able to motivate people. * Have a great deal of self-knowledge. * Be able to work on their own or within a team. * Be organised and keep administration up to date. * Be aware of health and safety issues and know their legal responsibilities. * Know when to refer someone to their GP. * Be able to work on a self-employed basis and run a business.
Your Long Term Prospects
With experience and training, yoga teachers can develop their expertise and the range of yoga classes they can offer.
They may decide to undertake further training to become a practitioner in other complementary therapies. Further business opportunities may be explored, such as setting up and developing yoga centres or running retreats
Get Further Information
British Wheel of Yoga (BWY), 25 Jermyn Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7RU
Tel: 01529 306851
Website: www.bwy.org.uk
The Prince's Foundation for Integrated Health,
33-41 Dallington Street, London EC1V 0BB
Tel: 020 3119 3100
Website: www.fih.org.uk
Register of Exercise Professionals, 3rd Floor,
8-10 Crown Hill, Croydon CR0 1RZ
Tel: 020 8686 6464
Website: www.exerciseregister.org
SkillsActive, Castlewood House,
77-91 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1PX
Tel: 020 7632 2000
Website: www.skillsactive.com
Yoga Biomedical Trust, 90-92 Pentonville Road, Islington, London N1 9HS
Tel: 020 7689 3040
Website: www.yogatherapy.org
Other Related Jobs * Alexander Technique Teacher * Aromatherapist * Health and Fitness Instructor * Herbalist Additional resources
Additional resources for job seekers and those already in a job.
Advice on dealing with student debt
A guide to preparing the perfect CV
All about the National Minimum Wage
How to increase your salary
How to get promoted at work
Search for the latest vacancies and salaries
Successful interview techniques
Unlucky graduates under the property ladder